Burchill was accused of using transphobic language, such as "a bunch of dicks in chicks' clothing", prompting The Observer to launch an inquiry.

The article has now been removed from sister paper The Guardian's website, with Mulholland stating: "We have decided to withdraw from publication the Julie Burchill comment piece 'Transsexuals should cut it out'.

"The piece was an attempt to explore contentious issues within what had become a highly-charged debate.

"The Observer is a paper which prides itself on ventilating difficult debates and airing challenging views

"On this occasion we got it wrong and in light of the hurt and offense caused I apologize and have made the decision to withdraw the piece. The Observer Readers' Editor will report on these issues at greater length."